The future of universities in towns and cities around the world.
As an independent researcher I conduct original research, write reports and briefings, and promote findings at events and conferences.
My focus is on the role of universities in development, in particular in their local area. I am based in the UK, but have extensive international experience, including recent research in Europe and sub-Saharan Africa.
About James
Over the past few years I have completed work for the Royal Society, KPMG, GuildHE, the UK Government Office for Science, the Commonwealth and Chevening scholarship programmes, Research England, Rwanda Action and British Council International Education Services.
I’m also Head of Research at the National Centre for Entrepreneurship in Education, an Associate at Yorkshire Universities, a PhD candidate at UCL Institute of Education, and a Research Affiliate at the University of Rwanda.
In 2018-19 I led an eight country research project for the British Council on ‘smart cities’ which attracted national and international press coverage.
In the past I’ve worked for Universities UK, UNESCO Vietnam, and the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
Latest from the blog
I’ve been blogging here for over five years, mostly about my work and projects. See all posts.
Twelve examples of how to extend university civic engagement
A table of examples to show the mechanics of cross-sector collaboration
A helpful reminder
‘1411 hours. The station is back in crisis. Once again, we cannot use the printer.’
Visualising a path to local engagement
Before local development work can start, institutional support, staff or student willingness, and appropriate resources are needed
